Dick Johnson, five-time Australian Touring Car Champion (’81, ’82, ’84, ’88, ’89), three time Bathurst 1000 winner (’81,’ 89, ’94), Ford folk hero, and all ’round Australian racing royalty.
Dick sprung into the national consciousness after the unforgettable “rock” incident whilst leading the Bathurst 1000 in 1980.
Not only was Dick quick on the track, he was also famous for his his quick wit and hilarious one liners, often captured on Channel 7′s pioneering race cam. Here are just a few:
“This thing wouldn’t pull a drunken sailor off your sister” After his Turbo failed in his Ford Sierra
“It’s like running a marathon around your clothes line.” Referring to the tight nature of the Winton circuit.
“It’s like chewing the leg on a chocolate frog, it’s about that much fun.” On driving a Ford Sierra in the wet.
” I suppose Boris Becker couldn’t win Wimbledon with a ping pong bat either, could he.” Referring to his under performing Ford Mustang.
Fast driver, funny guy.
These images continue our series of photo specials showcasing the stunning images from Autopics.com.au. The Autopics.com.au collection is based on the archives of Peter D’Abbs, Lance J. Ruting and David Blanch, and is part of a massive collection of over 750,000 motor racing photographs, many of which are available for purchase on their website.
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Images: Autopics.com.au©
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10 of the best from Autopics: Dick Johnson is a post from Motorsport Retro, bringing you classic motorsport, cars, motorcycles and gear every day.